Winning Restaurant Loyalty Programs: 20 Inspiring Examples in 2025 

The restaurant industry is evolving fast—and it’s not just about good food anymore. Today’s diners expect value, personalization, and rewards. In fact, 84% of US Gen Z and Millennials say loyalty programs influence whether they stay with a brand, while 38% of U.S. consumers say earning bigger discounts or free products is the biggest incentive to join.

For example, Starbucks has reported that 57% of its U.S. revenue in a single quarter came from loyalty program members alone—proving how powerful these programs can be when done right.

In this article, we’ll break down 20 successful restaurant loyalty programs around the world, including:

  • Real-life examples from fast food chains, fine dining restaurants, and independent cafes
  • The biggest benefits of restaurant loyalty programs
  • Common traits of high-performing loyalty programs
  • Key loyalty trends to watch in 2025
  • Actionable tips to increase loyalty program sign-ups
  • How to start building an effective loyalty program for your own restaurant

Top 20 Successful Restaurant Loyalty Program Examples to Inspire You

These real-world examples from global restaurant brands highlight how loyalty programs—digital, point-based, or tiered—are driving customer retention in 2025.

All images of loyalty programs are taken directly from the official websites of the restaurants used as examples.

types of restaurant loyalty programs

1. Subway MVP Rewards™ – Tiered Earning at Scale

Loyalty Program Type: Tiered, Digital App
About the brand: Subway is a global quick-service restaurant known for its customizable sandwiches.

How the program works:

  • New members get 250 points just for joining
  • Get 10 points for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases
  • 400 points = $2 Subway® Cash to use toward any menu items
  • Tier system:
    • Pro: Standard earning and redeeming
    • Captain ($200 in annual spend): Access to bonus point days and special deals
    • All-Star ($400 in annual spend): Perks like free chips on Fridays, exclusive Subway® swag, and premium member goodies
  • The app also includes order tracking, in-app challenges, and personalized offers

What makes it successful:

  • 250 free points at sign-up gives users a head start toward their first reward
  • Easy-to-understand reward rate — 400 points = $2 Subway® Cash
  • Higher tiers unlock exclusive offers, bonus days, and unique freebies like Friday chips or branded swag
  • All activity happens in-app, creating a seamless digital loyalty experience
image 7

2. YO! Rewards – Simple Points-Based System

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Digital app
About the brand: YO! is a UK-based casual dining chain focused on sushi and Japanese dishes.

How the program works:

What makes it successful:

  • Easy to understand: One stamp per £10 spent keeps it simple
  • Clear, milestone-based rewards (3, 6, 10 stamps) encourage frequent visits
  • Low entry point: Just £30 in spend to unlock the first reward
  • Accessible via app or card, making it flexible for different customer preferences
  • Vouchers can be redeemed on almost anything, increasing perceived value
image 10 2
YO! Sushi Loyalty App

3. Starbucks Rewards – Mobile-First and Behavior-Driven

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app
About the brand: Starbucks is one of the most recognized global coffeehouse chains.

How the program works:

  • Members earn 1 Star for every $1 spent when paying through a registered Starbucks Card or the app
  • Stars can be redeemed for rewards:
    • 25 Stars – Customize your drink (e.g., add an espresso shot, syrup, or dairy alternative)
    • 100 Stars – Brewed hot/iced coffee or tea, bakery items, packaged snacks
    • 200 Stars – Handcrafted drinks (like lattes or cold brews), hot breakfast items
    • 300 Stars – Sandwiches, protein boxes, or at-home coffee (e.g., ground or whole bean)
    • 400 Stars – Select Starbucks® merchandise (e.g., tumblers, mugs)
  • Members also enjoy a complimentary birthday treat each year
  • Bonus Star challenges, Double Star Days, and in-app games allow members to earn Stars faster
  • The Starbucks app provides mobile ordering, payment, and reward tracking in one place

What makes it successful:

  • Rewards create a wide range of redemption options, from small upgrades to premium merchandise
  • Gamified experiences like Bonus Star challenges and Double Star Days increase frequency and engagement
  • Mobile-first experience makes earning and redeeming seamless, from ordering ahead to tracking Stars
  • Birthday reward adds a personalized touch that reinforces customer loyalty
  • Consistent and transparent value proposition keeps members motivated to earn

Note: In the UK, members earn 10 Stars for every £1 spent using a registered Starbucks Card or app. Redemption thresholds and reward structure may differ by region.

4. Domino’s Rewards – Frequency-Driven Perks

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Digital app and web account
About the brand: Domino’s is a leading pizza delivery chain operating worldwide.

How the program works:

Members earn 10 points for any delivery or carryout order of $5 or more. Points can be redeemed for various menu items, including:

  • Medium 2-topping pizzas
  • Stuffed cheesy bread
  • Chocolate lava cakes

Redemptions start at 20 points, with flexible options up to 60 points. The Domino’s app enables easy tracking, reordering, and access to exclusive digital deals.

What makes it successful:
Low minimum spend ($5) increases accessibility for more customers

  • Flexible reward redemptions across a wide range of menu items
  • Customers can earn points on both delivery and carryout orders
  • Seamless in-app experience improves retention and reorders
  • Simple structure encourages more frequent purchases
domino's pizza loyalty rewards

5. MyMcDonald’s Rewards – Mass Adoption with Personalization

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app

About the brand: McDonald’s is the world’s largest fast-food chain, with locations in over 100 countries.

how mcdonald's rewards work?

How the program works:
Members earn 100 points for every $1 spent through the McDonald’s app

  • Points can be redeemed for various menu items, including drinks, fries, burgers, and meals
  • Rewards start at 1,500 points and scale up to 6,000 points for premium items
  • App users gain access to exclusive daily deals, order ahead, and contactless pickup
  • Points are only automatically earned, then members/customers can choose rewards to redeem (manually) on the app
  • Download the app and get a free Big Mac with your first purchase of $1

What makes it successful:

  • Simple and consistent points-to-reward structure makes it easy for customers to understand and use
  • The app integrates ordering, earning, and redeeming in one place, improving convenience
  • Members get exclusive deals and bonus point offers through the app
  • Works across multiple order channels: pickup, curbside, drive-thru, and delivery

6. Pret Perks – Hybrid Subscription and Points

Loyalty Program Type: Subscription + points, Mobile app

About the brand: Pret A Manger is a UK-based chain offering coffee, sandwiches, and organic food.

How the program works:

  • Members can earn a star every time you shop
  • Once members collect 10 points, they can redeem a perk
  • Members also receive personalized rewards and special offers
  • For its Club Pret Stars, members earn Stars every time they:
    • Renew their subscription
    • Purchase any item along with their drink
  • With your Club Pret subscription, you can now get 50% off five hot or iced Barista-made drinks every day
  • Use the Pret app to claim your drinks, with a 30-minute interval required between redemptions

What makes it successful

  • Simple and transparent points system makes it easy for customers to understand and participate
  • Integration with the mobile app provides seamless tracking, ordering, and redemption
  • Personalized rewards and special offers increase customer engagement and loyalty
Club Pret stars how to
image 15 2

7. Jollibee Rewards – Regional Loyalty with Global Aspirations

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app

About the brand: Known for local comfort food like Chickenjoy, Jollibee is a Filipino fast-food chain expanding internationally, with current locations in North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions.

How the program works:

  • Get 10 Jolly Points for every $1 spent at participating locations or through the Jollibee app
  • Redeem for tasty rewards:
    • 200 points – $2 Off a Single Bucket
    • 400 points – Free Pie, Regular Side, or 22oz Drink
    • 600 points – Free Chicken Sandwich, $6 Off Any Bucket, or Premium Side
    • 800 points – Free 3pc Tenders
    • 900 points – Free Deluxe Chicken Sandwich
  • Expect surprise rewards and treats just for being a member
  • Get exclusive promotions, mascot meet-and-greets, and chances to snag limited-edition Jollibee merch

What makes it successful:

  • Rewards program is integrated into the mobile app, making it convenient for customers to order, earn, and redeem points
  • Offers exclusive app-only deals and early access to menu items, driving app engagement and loyalty
  • Encourages repeat visits through points accumulation and meaningful redemption options
jollibee loyalty rewards perks
Jollibee Rewards Perks

8. Chipotle Rewards – Gamified Loyalty with Challenges

Loyalty Program Type: Points + gamification, Mobile app

About the brand: Chipotle is a U.S.-based fast-casual chain offering customizable burritos and bowls.

How the program works:

  • Members earn 10 points for every $1 spent in the restaurant, online, or via the app
  • Members can redeem tasty meals for certain accumulated points
  • The program features Extras, which are personalized challenges and special offers that let users earn bonus points
  • Members can unlock achievement badges by completing challenges, purchases, or trying new menu items
  • The app and online dashboard allow members to track their points, rewards, and Extras progress
  • Members can get a birthday reward, exclusive offers, and special food drops

What makes it successful:

  • Gamified elements like challenges and badges create ongoing engagement beyond transactions
  • Personalized offers and Extras give members additional ways to earn points, driving repeat visits
  • Clear rewards structure offers strong value and motivates frequent purchases
  • Seamless mobile and online integration enhances convenience and user experience
chipotle extra challenges
Chipotle Extra challenges

9. Panera Bread MyPanera – Experience-Focused Loyalty

Loyalty Program Type: Experience-based, Mobile app + in-store

About the brand: Panera Bread is a U.S. bakery-café chain offering soups, sandwiches, and baked goods.

How the program works:

  • Members receive rewards based on visit history and interactions, not a fixed points system
  • Rewards include free pastry and free delivery for first 30 days upon signing up
  • Enjoy birthday treats, exclusive offers, and earn visit credits with eGift Card purchases
  • Unlimited Sip Club (paid subscription):
    • Enjoy any size hot coffee, hot tea, iced coffee, iced tea, fountain drink, or lemonade every 2 hours
    • Includes free refills of the same beverage during regular café hours
    • Members also get $0 delivery fees on qualifying orders
    • Select Saturday deals

What makes it successful:

  • Personalized rewards based on individual purchase behavior enhance relevance and delight
  • Surprise-based system keeps customers curious and engaged over time
  • Integration with the Panera app and online ordering streamlines access and reward redemption
  • The Unlimited Sip Club drives daily visits and long-term engagement beyond standard purchases
mypanera benefits

10. TGI Fridays Rewards  – Classic Casual Dining Engagement

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app or website login
About the brand: TGI Fridays is an American casual dining chain known for its bar-and-grill menu and vibrant dining atmosphere.

How the program works:

  • Members earn 1 point for every $1 spent on eligible food and drinks.
  • Rewards earned when you achieve the qualifying number of points can be redeemed for free menu items, including appetizers, kids meals, and desserts.
  • Members get free chips and salsa or $3 off an appetizers with every visit
  • Get exclusive promos, special offers, and personalized deals delivered straight to your inbox
  • Members receive a free dessert on their birthday.
  • Signing up includes a welcome offer for new members

What makes it successful:

  • Simple and familiar earn-and-redeem structure makes it easy for guests to engage
  • Birthday reward adds a personal touch and reason to visit annually
  • Digital access through app and website improves convenience and accessibility
  • Welcome offer encourages sign-ups and first-time participation
TGIFridays rewards

11. My Chili’s Rewards – Visit-Based Perks 

Loyalty Program Type: Points, Mobile app or email signup
About the brand: Chili’s Grill & Bar is a U.S.-based casual dining chain with a focus on Tex-Mex cuisine.

How the program works:

  • Members receive personalized rewards and free menu items
  • Members get free chips and salsa (or non-alcoholic beverage) at participating locations, terms and conditions apply
  • Members get a free dessert on their birthday
  • Rewards and offers are delivered via email or accessible through the Chili’s mobile app

What makes it successful:

  • Sign-up and birthday desserts provide instant value and encourage ongoing participation
  • Personalized rewards keep the experience relevant to individual dining habits
  • Multiple access points (email and app) improve user convenience and engagement

12. Zizzi Zillionaires’ Club – Italian-Inspired Digital Perks

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based with gamification, Website login
About the brand: Zizzi is a UK-based casual Italian restaurant chain known for pizzas, pastas, and a playful dining atmosphere.

Zizzi zillionaires club digital perks

How the program works:

  • Members earn points called Zs for every transaction over £10 / €10 at Zizzi restaurants, Click & Collect, or delivery through selected partners
  • Earn Zs automatically by logging into your Zillionaires’ Club account during purchase
  • Redeem Zs for food rewards, special discounts, and exclusive offers
  • Members receive a free birthday treat
  • Get welcome perks for new members and surprise perks after every 4th visit

What makes it successful:

  • Low threshold to earn rewards encourages repeat visits
  • Regular rewards and treats add ongoing value to the dining experience
  • Birthday gift and exclusive perks enhance the sense of VIP treatment
  • Simple digital experience through account login keeps reward management hassle-free

13. Tim Hortons Tims Rewards – Canada’s Favorite Cup of Loyalty

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app or card
About the brand: Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest coffee and quick-serve chain, with global expansion in Asia and the Middle East.

How the program works:

  • Members earn 10 points per $1 and can be redeemed for a wide range of menu items including coffee, baked goods, and meals.
  • Members can redeem rewards starting at 340 points for a classic donut, and go up to 1450 points for sandwiches and specialty meals
  • Members can scan their digital or linked physical Tims Rewards card at checkout.
  • The mobile app also offers order-ahead functionality and personalized offers.

What makes it successful

  • Low redemption thresholds make it easy for customers to earn and use rewards frequently.
  • Simple, point-based structure encourages repeat visits without complexity.
  • App integration adds convenience through mobile ordering and reward tracking.
how to get tim hortons rewards

14. Le Pain Quotidien Rewards and Loyalty – Digital App for Daily Rituals

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app
About the brand: Le Pain Quotidien is a Belgian bakery-restaurant chain with locations and franchises around the world.

How the program works:

  • Bank 1 point for every $1 spent through the app, online, dine-in, or to-go purchases within US locations (except Third-party online orders)
  • For every 75 points, members earn $6 in redeemable rewards
  • Members receive a $3 reward for every successful referral when a friend downloads the app
  • Members receive a complimentary treat on their birthday from Le Pain Quotidien
  • Members can use the app to place catering orders for parties or events
  • The app also supports mobile ordering and contactless payment

What makes it successful:

  • Straightforward $1-to-1-point system with achievable redemption tiers
  • Referral rewards encourage organic customer growth and app adoption
  • Birthday treats enhance both personal and group engagement
  • App functionality supports convenience with ordering, payment, and reward tracking

15. Nando’s Card – Peri-Perks of Rewards

Loyalty Program Type: Visit-based, Tiered Rewards
About the brand: Nando’s is a South African-Portuguese casual dining chain known for flame-grilled peri-peri chicken, with a strong presence in the UK, Australia, and other regions.

Nandosperi-perks of rewards mechanics
Nando’s Rewards mechanics

How the program works:

  • Members earn one Chilli each day when they spend £7 or more when they Eat-In, Collect, or order Nando’s Delivery
  • Rewards are unlocked at key milestones:
    • 3 Chillies = Green Reward
    • 6 Chillies = Orange Reward
    • 10 Chillies = Red Reward
  • Each reward tier offers free Nando’s menu items, with Red Rewards unlocking the most generous perks
  • Members can register for the card via the app or online, and start collecting Chillies with eligible purchases

What makes it successful:

  • Simple, visit-based structure makes it easy to understand and use
  • Tiered rewards encourage continued engagement, with increasing incentive at each level
  • Daily earning limit (one Chilli per day) drives repeat visits over time rather than high spend in one visit.
  • Broad earning eligibility across Eat-In, Collect, and Delivery channels supports convenience and accessibility.

16. Greggs App Rewards – Loyalty for On-the-Go Customers

Loyalty Program Type: Digital stamp-based, Mobile app
About the brand: Greggs is a UK bakery chain known for pastries, sandwiches, and affordable meal deals.

How the program works:

  • Members earn stamps with every purchase in key categories like hot drinks, bakes, and sweet treats
  • After collecting 9 stamps in a category, members receive their 10th item free (for eligible items)
  • Members receive a free hot drink as a welcome treat for downloading the app
  • Members can use the app to order ahead and skip the queue
  • Members gain access to exclusive offers and promotions through the app
  • Members enjoy a free sweet treat on their birthday.

What makes it successful:

  • Simple stamp-based system that’s easy to understand and track
  • Multiple reward categories encourage variety in purchases
  • App-exclusive offers and queue-skipping features add extra convenience
  • Birthday rewards and regular promotions keep members engaged

17. MOD Pizza MOD Rewards – Easy Points, Tasty Perks

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based, Mobile app
About the brand: MOD Pizza is a U.S.-based fast-casual chain specializing in custom pizzas.

How the program works:

  • Earn 1 point for every $1 spent
  • Redeem points for a free MOD menu item
  • Enjoy exclusive deals and surprise rewards via the app
  • New members receive a free cake just for signing up.

What makes it successful:

  • Low redemption threshold (50 points) makes rewards feel achievable
  • Free sign-up reward (cake) creates an immediate sense of value and delight
  • Early access to new items drives loyalty and app engagement
  • Simple structure is easy for customers to understand and use regularly
Mod pizza loyalty rewards app
mod pizza loyalty rewards scheme

18. The Coffee Bean Rewards – Multi-Tier Simplicity

Loyalty Program Type: Tiered + points, Mobile app
About the brand: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a U.S.-based coffee chain with global locations.

How the program works:

  • Members earn Bean Points faster with every qualifying purchase
  • Points can be redeemed for a wide range of items through a revamped rewards catalog
  • New members receive a welcome offer just for joining
  • Members can order ahead via the app to skip the line and save customized beverages for one-touch reordering
  • In-app delivery allows members to earn points without paying upcharges
  • Members can pay directly through the app, streamlining checkout and enhancing convenience

What makes it successful:

  • Accelerated point earning and expanded reward options create strong value and encourage frequent use
  • App features like order-ahead, in-app delivery, and saved favorites elevate the digital experience and customer convenience
  • Seamless mobile payment reduces friction and improves speed of service
  • Personalized and exclusive rewards reinforce brand loyalty and make members feel valued

19. Caffè Nero App – Stamp-Based Simplicity

Loyalty Program Type: Digital stamp, Mobile app
About the brand: Caffè Nero is a European coffee house brand focused on premium beverages and pastries.

How the program works:

  • Earn a digital stamp with every handcrafted drink purchased
  • Collect 9 stamps to get your 10th drink free
  • Access exclusive in-app promotions and seasonal campaigns
  • Use the app to make payments, collect rewards, and store receipts

What makes it successful:

  • Straightforward stamp system is easy to follow and quick to reward
  • Integrated payment and rewards streamline the customer experience
  • In-app exclusives and seasonal offers keep users engaged
  • Loyalty structure encourages daily coffee purchases

20. Buffalo Wild Wings Rewards – Simple Points and Status Perks

Loyalty Program Type: Points-based + Tier-based, Mobile app + web account
About the brand: Buffalo Wild Wings is a U.S.-based casual dining chain known for wings, sauces, and shareable bar food.

How the program works:

  • Earn 10 points per $1 spent on eligible food and beverage purchases
  • Unlock bonus point offers and limited-time promotions through the app
  • Spend $250 in eligible purchases within a calendar year to reach Blazin’ Status
  • Blazin’ Status members earn 12 points per $1 and gain access to exclusive offers and perks

What makes it successful:

  • Easy-to-understand points structure promotes frequent dining
  • Tier-based perks give regulars a clear incentive to spend more
  • Exclusive offers and limited-time promos keep users engaged
  • App-based management streamlines the earning and redemption process
buffalo wild wings rewards
Buffalo Wild Wings Rewards

Winning Benefits of Restaurant Loyalty Programs

As a restaurant owner, loyalty programs might not feel as urgent as managing staff, food costs, or day-to-day operations. But putting them on the back burner can mean missing out on steady, long-term growth. A well-designed loyalty program encourages repeat visits, increases spend per order, and builds stronger connections with your customers.

Here’s why restaurant loyalty programs work—and how they can directly impact your bottom line.

  • Increase customer retention and lifetime value: Over 57% of restaurants now offer some form of rewards or incentive program. The reason is simple: 55% of customers visit restaurants at least twice a month to earn rewards. This behavior leads to higher customer retention and boosts Customer Lifetime Value (CLV).
  • Drive higher average order value and visit frequency: When guests know they’re earning something with each visit, they’re more likely to return and spend more. Tiered rewards, limited-time offers, and exclusive deals encourage customers to add extras to their orders or come back sooner. Loyalty members can spend up to 18% more per visit than non-members.
  • Collect useful customer data: Digital loyalty tools track what your customers order and how often they return. This data helps you create more targeted promotions, adjust your menu, and improve marketing strategies. It also helps you send offers that feel personalized, which can lead to higher conversion rates.
  • Encourage word-of-mouth and referrals: When people get value from your program, they’re more willing to leave reviews, refer friends, or share on social media—especially if you offer referral bonuses or early access to specials.

What Do Successful Restaurant Loyalty Programs Have in Common?

Successful restaurant loyalty programs in 2025 focus on simplicity, personalization, and a smooth digital experience. These features help drive customer retention and long-term loyalty. The most effective programs typically share the following traits:

Simplicity and Ease of Use

  • Easy sign-up methods (e.g., QR codes, mobile apps)
  • Intuitive navigation and reward redemption at checkout
  • Minimal friction across channels — from joining to earning and redeeming
  • Avoid complex rules or unclear reward systems, which can discourage participation

Tangible Value and Desirable Rewards

  • Focus on low-cost, high-perceived value incentives (e.g., free sides, drink upgrades, birthday treats)
  • Rewards should feel achievable and worthwhile to encourage long-term engagement
  • High perceived value matters more than high actual cost

Exclusive Perks

  • Offer special deals and discounts only available to customers using the restaurant’s app or loyalty software
  • Incentivize app usage and boost customer retention by making frequent visits more rewarding

Personalization and Targeted Offers

  • Use customer data (purchase history, preferences) to tailor promotions
  • Deliver relevant recommendations and personalized messages
  • Create emotional connections through offers that feel thoughtful and timely

Seamless Omnichannel Experience

  • Provide a consistent loyalty experience across all platforms:
    • Mobile apps
    • Websites
    • In-store kiosks
    • Delivery platforms
  • Enable customers to earn and redeem rewards effortlessly regardless of how they engage

Digital Implementation and Communication

  • Adopting a digital platform (mobile apps or web-based) is crucial to run an effective loyalty program
  • Digital apps allow businesses to communicate directly with customers via:
    • Push notifications
    • Email newsletters
  • Serve as a centralized data hub, providing customers easy access to:
    • Points balance
    • Purchase history
    • Exclusive offers
  • This transparency and connectivity improve engagement and streamline management for both customers and businesses

Gamification and Fun Elements (Optional but Effective)

  • Incorporate interactive features like:
    • Challenges
    • Badges
    • Surprise rewards
  • Enhance engagement by tapping into users’ curiosity and drive for achievement

Restaurant loyalty programs in 2025 are smarter, more personalized, and fully digital. Gone are the days of paper punch cards. Today’s best programs live in mobile apps, use data to tailor experiences, and drive measurable results. With diners expecting more than just discounts, brands are leaning into innovation, convenience, and emotional connection to boost engagement and long-term loyalty.

Here are the top trends shaping restaurant loyalty programs this year:

  • Mobile-first experiences: App-based loyalty programs dominate, with brands like Starbucks and McDonald’s leading the way in user engagement.
  • Personalized rewards: Tailored offers based on past orders, birthdays, or preferences drive up to 15% more revenue.
  • Integrated with delivery: Loyalty features are now baked into online ordering and third-party platforms to increase retention.
  • Tiered reward systems: Status-based models (e.g., Silver, Gold) incentivize repeat spending and customer progression.

How to Drive Loyalty Program Enrollment

Getting customers to join your loyalty program can be straightforward if you follow these actionable tips:

  • Implement a Points System to Boost Spending: Points make customers want to keep coming back. Instead of just handing out a flat reward that gets spent fast, points create a game-like vibe where people try to hit the next level. Plus, you get to choose rewards that won’t break the bank but still feel awesome to earn.
  • Choose Low-Cost Menu Items for Rewards: Give away freebies that don’t cost you much but feel like a win for your guests. Think tasty sides or drinks that go perfectly with your star dishes. It’s a win-win: customers love the perk, and you keep your best-sellers profitable.
  • Embed Loyalty Features in Your Mobile App: Apps aren’t just for ordering—they’re loyalty magnets. When you mix rewards into your app, people download it and start ordering more often. Bonus: app users spend twice as much, so it’s a smart way to turn casual visitors into regulars.
  • Give New Members a Head Start with Bonus Points: Everyone loves a little boost. Starting new members with free points makes them feel like they’re already winning. It taps into the “gotta finish what I started” mindset and gets them excited to earn even more rewards.
  • Draw Inspiration from Proven Loyalty Program Successes: Don’t just guess what works—see what’s already working for others. Checking out success stories can spark ideas and show you how loyalty programs can seriously grow your sales and keep customers coming back for more.

Start Creating an Effective Restaurant Loyalty Program Today

Use these actionable tips from top-performing loyalty programs to design a program that drives real results:

  • Keep it simple and user-friendly: Make joining, earning, and redeeming rewards easy with clear rules and a smooth process.
  • Offer meaningful, valuable rewards: Focus on incentives that customers actually want and that support your profit margins.
  • Personalize your offers: Use purchase data to tailor rewards and promotions that make customers feel recognized and appreciated.
  • Integrate digital and in-person channels: Connect your loyalty program across your app, website, and physical locations for a seamless experience.
  • Communicate clearly and consistently: Keep customers engaged with regular updates on their points, rewards, and exclusive deals.

Looking to build your own restaurant loyalty app? Explore eTakeawayMax’s loyalty app solutions for UK-based restaurants and take the first step toward stronger customer engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a restaurant loyalty program?

Restaurants design loyalty programs as customer rewards systems to encourage repeat visits. Guests earn points, discounts, or perks for making purchases, which builds customer retention and increases long-term revenue.

The most popular types of restaurant loyalty programs include points-based systems, tiered rewards programs, digital punch cards, subscription-based memberships, and cashback or discount models.

What restaurants have the best loyalty program?

Top restaurants with standout loyalty programs include Starbucks, Domino’s, and McDonald’s. These brands use mobile apps, personalized offers, and strong incentives to keep customers engaged.

What is the best example of a loyalty program?

Starbucks Rewards is one of the best examples of a restaurant loyalty program. It offers points per purchase, tiered benefits, app integration, and seasonal promotions that drive frequent visits and high customer spend.

Which food chain has the best rewards program?

Starbucks, Subway, and Chipotle are leading food chains with the best rewards programs. They offer seamless app experiences, exclusive perks, and high-value redemption options.

What is a tiered loyalty program?

A tiered loyalty program rewards customers based on spending levels or engagement. As customers reach higher tiers, they unlock better perks. This structure encourages repeat visits and larger purchases.

What is the purpose of a loyalty program?

The purpose of a restaurant loyalty program is to increase customer retention, drive repeat business, and boost lifetime value. Loyalty programs also help restaurants collect customer data, personalize marketing, and improve profitability.

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